Carlos Alcaraz is continuing his breathtaking form at the US Open, securing a place in the semi-finals with a dominant victory over Jiri Lehecka. The 22-year-old Spaniard delivered an “almost perfect” performance, winning in straight sets with a decisive 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 scoreline. Alcaraz’s confidence was on full display from the opening game, as he immediately broke Lehecka’s serve and never looked back. The Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd was captivated by his effortless movement and a series of spectacular shots, including a forehand winner from far behind the baseline that set the tone for the match.
One of the most impressive aspects of Alcaraz’s game was his serve, which has become a significant weapon. He was highly effective, landing 63% of his first serves and winning 84% of those points. Notably, Alcaraz did not face a single break point throughout the entire match, a testament to his improved serve and overall consistency. This efficiency is a result of a new service motion he adopted during the pre-season, which has become increasingly dependable. Alcaraz himself acknowledged the importance of this, saying, “I’ve been improving a lot, and just every practice, every match I’ve been trying to feel more comfortable with the movement, with hitting good serves.”
While Lehecka, a talented opponent with a history of defeating Alcaraz, put up a strong fight in the third set, Alcaraz’s mental fortitude shone through. At a critical 4-4 juncture, Lehecka began to show signs of nerves. Rather than going for a high-risk highlight reel shot, Alcaraz chose a more measured approach, making deep returns and forcing an error from his opponent. He successfully broke Lehecka’s serve with a brilliant defensive play, showcasing his maturity and strategic growth. This ability to lock down his game when it mattered most is a new dimension to his already formidable game.
This victory is another highlight in Alcaraz’s remarkable season. He has reached the finals of his last seven tournaments and leads the tour with 59 match wins and six titles. His consistency has been striking, and he has played with a sense of freedom and confidence. This is the first time in his career that he has reached a Grand Slam semi-final without dropping a set, underscoring his current form and mental strength. He is no longer prone to the dramatic moments of self-sabotage that sometimes plagued his earlier career.
With a potential sixth Grand Slam title on the horizon, Alcaraz is feeling “great and hungry” to continue his journey. His progress is undeniable, and his performance against Lehecka was a masterclass in controlled aggression and tactical brilliance. The tennis world is watching with anticipation as he continues his quest for the championship, demonstrating that he has evolved into a truly complete player capable of dominating at the highest level. His current efficiency is a clear sign that he is ready for the next step in his career.
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